A new species uncovered by the Nelson Mandela University Research team has received world acclaim.
The Stromatolite Tanaid has been named one of the Top Ten Marine Species of 2018 by the World Register of Marine Species.
This list showcases the most unusual sea creatures discovered by scientists from around the world. Approximately 2,000 new marine species are described each year.
The discovery of this shrimp-like creature, which is smaller than a grain of rice was led by Dr Gavin Rishworth and Prof Renzo Perissinotto along the shorelines near the University in Port Elizabeth.
Dr Rishworth says the stromatolite represent those habitats that are the earliest form of where life is known to have first existed on earth
Scientists are eagerly searching within these stromatolite ecosystems for other unique treasures, but so far the charismatic Stromatolite Tanaid is the 'poster child' of its home and has been an exciting local discovery in South Africa. It’s also a proud Nelson Mandela University research achievement.
pic and source: Nelson Mandela University
